Manchester City vs Bournemouth: City Look to Bounce Back as Bournemouth Bring Unbeaten Run to the Etihad

Manchester City return to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon aiming to rediscover their winning touch as they face a confident Bournemouth side riding the longest unbeaten run in the Premier League. Pep Guardiola’s men have stuttered by their own high standards, while Andoni Iraola’s Cherries have quietly become one of the season’s surprise packages.

City come into this clash after a frustrating 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa, a result that marked their third Premier League loss of the campaign their joint-highest tally after nine games since 2013/14. Guardiola’s side have looked slightly off their usual rhythm in recent weeks, with injuries and fixture congestion testing their depth. However, with several key players returning to the squad, performances and results are expected to improve.

Despite their recent setbacks, City remain dominant at home. They have won all eight of their Premier League matches against Bournemouth at the Etihad, scoring 29 goals and conceding just five in the process.

Bournemouth, meanwhile, continue to impress. Iraola’s men are unbeaten in eight league games since their opening-day defeat to Liverpool, collecting 18 points their best-ever start to a top-flight season. Their sharp transitions and disciplined pressing have made them one of the league’s toughest sides to break down.

Erling Haaland and Rodri could return for City after missing the midweek League Cup victory through injury. Nico O’Reilly, Matheus Nunes, and Savinho were rested in that match and are expected to be back in contention for the starting XI, while Phil Foden and Joško Gvardiol may also be restored after featuring only from the bench.

For Bournemouth, Evanilson remains sidelined, though Iraola will not be overly concerned. Rising star Eli Kroupi who has scored in each of his last three Premier League appearances is expected to lead the line again following his excellent recent form.

City will look to reassert control through possession and pressing, with Haaland eager to get back among the goals after firing blanks in his last two games. Bournemouth will likely set up compactly and look to strike on the counter through Kroupi and Semenyo.

Given City’s flawless home record against Bournemouth and their need to respond after a poor outing, Guardiola’s men are clear favourites. However, Bournemouth’s confidence and tactical organisation could make this a tighter contest than past meetings.